My father was a WWII POW. He struggled with the mental battle long after the physical battles had ended.

The Soldier

I pledge allegiance to the American Flag; forever may she wave.
God bless those covered with her as they're lowered to their grave.
We must not take for granted the freedoms that we share
and the soldiers that protect us in our darkest hour.
Soldiers leave their loved ones to heed their country's call,
ready to place their lives in danger, willing to give it all.
Sleepless nights and endless days are common, but they know
without the blood of patriots, the freedom tree won't grow.
Through hail, rain, snow, and heat, blood, sweat, and tears,
they march into the heat of battle, pushing aside their fears.
When the physical battle is over, the mental battle begins.
For some, it's only temporary, for others, it never ends,
so pray for all of our soldiers, and let us never forget
we can never repay them; we will always be in their debt.